Energy

States push to restrict utility companies’ use of customer funds for political activities

Bills in nearly a dozen states would prohibit those funds from being used for lobbying and other expenditures.
The signage for FirstEnergy Stadium is visible on the facade before an NFL preseason football game, Aug. 27, 2022, in Cleveland. (AP Photo/Keith Srakocic, File)

States are considering legislation that would rein in public utilities’ use of customer money for political activities.

With scandals shining fresh light on the issue, legislators in 11 states introduced bills this year that would prohibit those funds from being used for expenditures such as lobbying, paying dues to trade associations, marketing costs and country-club memberships.

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